GE unit to supply electric propulsion systems for Singapore’s combat vessel

GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business has been awarded a contract by Singapore shipbuilder ST Engineering Marine Limited to supply its Ship’s Electric Grid with Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) equipment for the Republic of Singapore Navy’s six-ship Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV) program. The six MRCVs will be the first IFEP-powered vessels for the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and will replace its fleet of mechanical drive Victory-class missile corvettes, which have been in service since 1989. Delivery of the electric propulsion systems for the new ships is planned over the next 10 years. GE Vernova’s Ship’s Electric Grid delivers the electrical power required by the ship’s propulsion, and energizes its operational and mission systems, such as radar and communications. With the ability to share electric power to any load on the ship’s power network, the system is more energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate than a conventional mechanical drive configuration. GE Vernova’s Ship’s Electric Grid includes all generators, medium-voltage switchboards, transformers, propulsion variable frequency drives (VFDs), electric propulsion motors, thruster motors, soft starters, a shore power connection, power management system (PMS), and the propulsion control system (PCS). The modular platform design of the RSN’s new MRCVs allows for different naval missions requiring electric power. This includes the ability to host unmanned air and surface vehicles, which will expand the area of each vessel’s surveillance capability. Andy Cooper, General Manager at GE Vernova’s Power Conversion UK business, said: “Power Conversion is pleased to equip the RSN’s new MRCVs with electric power. Like so many other navies around the world, the RSN is adopting an electric ship configuration as an enabler for increased levels of power and energy-efficiency. Being equipped with an electric grid allows a ship the ability to share every bit of available power throughout the vessel, strengthening its energy surety and even helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” With deep expertise in marine and naval performance requirements, GE Vernova’s Power Conversion UK center of excellence (COE) will be responsible for the design, systems engineering, manufacturing and testing of the equipment. The execution of the project will be supported by the Power Conversion Asia team based in Singapore, who will oversee project engineering, project management, commissioning and sea trials. GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business powers the majority of the UK Royal Navy’s large vessel fleet, including Queen Elizabeth Class, Type 45 and Type 26 vessels, as well as many other global naval programs. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]